WHO WE ARE   The Arc of the Piedmont is a non-profit membership organization serving families in the city of Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa and Nelson. We are your local chapter of The Arc, the nation’s largest volunteer organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and full participation of all children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Arc is here for you... for life.

We were founded in 1954 when a group of parents and friends of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities came together to support each other. We still serve some of these same families and friends, working to ensure the full range of human and civil rights for people with disabilities and to improve their quality of life.

The Arc of the Piedmont serves families, infants, children and adults with a wide range of support needs due to intellectual and developmental disabilities.

OUR CORE VALUES

• People First.  The Arc believes that all people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities have strengths, abilities and inherent value; are equal before the law; and must be treated with dignity and respect.  The Arc represents, supports and acts on behalf of individuals and their families regardless of level of disability or membership in The Arc.  The Arc believes in self-determination by empowering people with the supports needed to make informed decisions and choices.
• Community Participation.  The Arc works toward and believes in the community imperative: that all people have the fundamental moral, civil and constitutional rights to live, learn, work, play and worship in safe and healthy communities of their choosing.  The Arc has responsibility to ensure the safety and well being of individuals.
• Democracy.  A democratic process involving members, through affiliated chapters, is utilized to take positions on important issues, policies and programs.
• Visionary Leadership.  The Arc leads by promoting the mission, core values and position statements.  We lead with integrity, accountability, and by open, honest and timely communication.  We partnership with volunteer and staff leadership at all levels of the organization that provides mutual support for their respective roles. 
• Diversity.  The Arc values and insists upon diversity in its leadership and membership.  The Arc actively pursues and welcomes diverse groups (including but not limited to race, ethnicity, religion, age, geographic location, sexual orientation, gender and level of disability).
• Integrity and Excellence.  The Arc conducts its business with integrity.  The Arc reflects quality and excellence in all its work.